Adversities

Jimmy Lau

How should we look at adversities? A human tendency is to look at opposition and problems as a sign that we are doing something wrong or that God does not want us to go there or do that work. If that is true, the apostles and the first century Christians would have stopped preaching the gospel then. But the field was ready for harvest through the adversaries were many: “And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women” (Acts 5:14).
 
Life never went smoothly for Paul (2 Corinthians 11:22-33). But he soldiered on, overcoming the adversities one by one: “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). Paul’s ministry wasn’t a stroll in the park but a fight in the ring.
 
What are some of the adversaries we may encountaer?

1. Self – We are our greatest enemy: “For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do” (Romans 7:19).
2. Worldliness. The world is a big hindrance: “The first said unto him, I have bought a piece of ground, and I must needs go and see it: I pray thee have me excused” (Luke 14:18).
3. Relationship. Sometimes, friends, spouses and children are our adversaries: “And another said, I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come” (Luke 14:20).
4. Christian brethren. Yes, there will be some from within that will discourage a good work and stop its course: “The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds” (Philippians 1:16).

There are many open doors. But to get to the doors, we may have to cross hills, valleys, and streams. Just remember: Christianity is all about OPEN DOORS (Revelation 3:7), not the adversaries. Don’t look at the adversaries; look at the opportunities. Look at Jesus (Hebrews 12:2).